Herbal Acronyms Decoded: The Differences Between THC and CBD

Do you know the difference between THC and CBD, or are those just random acronyms in your eyes? If you don’t know the difference, don’t worry. There’s massive confusion between the two compounds. Both may be beneficial, but for alternate reasons. In the interest of helping folks like you choose the right compound, we are pleased to present a savvy comparison.

“CBD offers pain relief and some

sorts of disease management

without getting you ‘high’, plus

nutrients, including vitamins,

amino acids, and healthful

omega-3 fatty acids.”

What experts in a legal state say

When Colorado was still a part of the legendary wild west, cannabis was not unlawful to grow, sell, give away, or use. It was not until well into the second decade of the 20th century that the highly beneficial herb was criminalized. All forms of marijuana became outlawed in Colorado in March 1917. Use of the indigenous herb remained illegal for nearly one hundred years, finally becoming legal again for recreational use by adults in 2012.

Cannabidiol, or CBD, and Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, are naturally occurring components of the cannabis plant. The compounds are found in both sativa and indica strains. CBD is found, to a far lesser extent, in hemp plants. For medical purposes, indica and sativa strains are generally preferred. Hemp is cultivated for CBD extraction as well as for fabric making, oil production and a number of other textile uses. Marijuana for medical consumers has been legal albeit very much regulated in Colorado since 2000.

What’s what in the world of cannabis

The simplest way of delineating the difference between THC and CBD is to say that THC is psychoactive, while CBD is not. THC will alter your mind, get you high, give you a ‘buzz’.

THC does offer some medical benefit, especially where an eye disorder called glaucoma is concerned. Numerous studies conclude that THC may also offer some measure of relief to people with multiple sclerosis, or MS. Empirical evidence proves that THC increases appetite and boosts mood in persons undergoing chemotherapy. Relaxation and hunger, a condition nicknamed ‘the munchies,’ are commonly associated with THC use. Sleepiness may also occur, due to THC’s natural ability to mimic a natural nerve transmitter called anandamide.

Another medical malady that may be treated with THC is a devastating nerve disease known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS. Extracted pharmaceutical THC and CBD may be given orally to boost appetite in persons with cancer, notes Mayo Clinic.

CBD offers pain relief and some sorts of disease management without getting you ‘high,’ explains Denver-based Westword magazine. When it comes to pain relief, CBD alone offers plenty of analgesic benefit without the sleepy side effects of THC treatment. Most commonly taken as a highly concentrated oil, CBD oil delivers a host of nutrients, including vitamins, amino acids, and healthful omega-3 fatty acids. Cornell University notes that marijuana and marijuana derivatives may relieve nausea, boost appetite, and alleviate spasticity.

What to look for

When shopping for CBD oil for pain relief, look for a product produced under low pressure at low temperature. Eschew CBD products made with a butane or CO2 extraction process.

CBD for pets

Yes, it’s a thing. If your pet suffers from achy joints or skin problems, you may wish to try CBD products made specifically for our furry friends. Imbue Botanicals offers a range of soothing products designed for dogs and people, too. Balms, salves, tinctures and CBD supplements offer hope and comfort to pet owners who wish to do right by their dogs and cats.

When in Colorado

The state of Colorado reminds visitors and residents alike that cannabis may only be used by adults aged 21 and older. To obtain medical marijuana, residents must present a ‘red card’ at an authorized cannabis dispensary

Some people understandably conflate CBD oil with hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is a nutritious dietary supplement that delivers a healthful load of the omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids that are essential to cardiac health. Hemp seed oil does not typically contain psychoactive THC, however.

About the Author

Charlie Hartley is an herbalist and alternative medicine healer. He loves to look for great ways to help people feel better and posts his findings on many health and wellbeing websites.

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